In the sermon "Established By The Power Of The Gospel," Tom Harding addresses the theological topic of the power of the gospel as it relates to the life of believers, particularly focusing on God's sovereignty in salvation and the revelation of Christ. He articulates the central argument that the gospel not only establishes believers in faith but also assures them of their standing before God through Christ's redemptive work. Key Scripture reference, Romans 16:25-27, undergirds this argument by illustrating God's power to establish believers and revealing the mystery of the gospel that commands obedience from all nations. Harding emphasizes the doctrinal significance of the gospel in affirming the Reformed doctrines of grace and highlighting God’s wisdom and glory through Christ, encouraging believers to live in light of this transformative message.
Key Quotes
“The power of the gospel is what sustains us, anchoring our faith in the midst of uncertainty.”
“God’s revealed mystery through Christ is an invitation to all nations, calling them to the obedience of faith.”
“In acknowledging only God’s wisdom, we recognize that our salvation and identity are grounded entirely in His grace.”
“Every facet of the gospel prepares us to glorify God through Jesus Christ, eternally securing our hope.”
The Bible teaches that the gospel is the power of God for salvation, establishing believers in Christ.
According to Romans 1:16-17, Paul proclaims that he is not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes. This power establishes believers upon the rock, which is Jesus Christ, emphasizing that our standing before God is not based on our works, but solely on the gospel. Paul reinforces this in Romans 16:25, where he attributes the power to establish believers to God Himself, highlighting the necessity of the gospel for a secure relationship with God.
Romans 1:16-17, Romans 16:25
The truth of justification by faith is grounded in Scripture, particularly in Romans 3 and 4.
Justification by faith is a central tenet of Reformed theology, vividly illustrated in Romans 3:19-26, where Paul states that all the world is guilty before God and cannot be justified by the law. Instead, righteousness comes freely by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 4 further elucidates this by showing that Abraham was justified by faith before the law was given, affirming that it is faith, not works, that secures our righteousness. This doctrine underscores the sovereignty of God in salvation, as it is He who justifies the ungodly.
Romans 3:19-26, Romans 4
Election underscores God's sovereignty in salvation, affirming that it is by His grace that we are saved.
The doctrine of election, as presented in Romans 9:11-16, highlights that God's choice is not based on human works or merit but solely on His mercy and purpose. This truth reassures Christians that their salvation is secure, rooted in God's will rather than fluctuating human efforts. Furthermore, Romans 11:5 states that at the present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace, illustrating that God's elect will be saved, motivating believers to rest in His promise and grace. Election is significant as it ensures that God will accomplish His purpose in fulfilling His covenant promises.
Romans 9:11-16, Romans 11:5
Salvation is by grace alone, as highlighted in Ephesians 2:8-9, which emphasizes it is not of works.
The principle of salvation by grace alone is a foundational truth in the Reformed faith. Ephesians 2:8-9 states that we are saved by grace through faith, not of ourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, so that no one may boast. This highlights the absolute necessity of God's unmerited favor in our salvation. Romans 11:6 further reinforces this by stating that if salvation is by grace, then it cannot be based on works, as this would nullify grace. The assurance of salvation rests entirely in God's grace and not in human efforts or merit.
Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 11:6
Preaching is vital for revealing the gospel, which is the means God uses to call His elect.
Preaching the gospel is a divinely instituted means by which God calls His chosen people to faith. In 1 Corinthians 1:21, Paul asserts that it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save those who believe. The proclamation of the gospel serves as the avenue through which the Holy Spirit applies the grace of God to sinners, awakening them to spiritual life. Romans 16:25 emphasizes that the establishment of believers is according to the gospel and its preaching, affirming that through the faithful explanation and application of Scripture, God uses preaching to communicate His truth and effect regeneration in the hearts of His people.
1 Corinthians 1:21, Romans 16:25
Comments
Your comment has been submitted and is awaiting moderation. Once approved, it will appear on this page.
Be the first to comment!